On behalf of all of us at the CCLTRG, our chairman, Jon Wyss, extends deepest condolences to all of the victims of this summer’s wildfires—and particularly the families of the firefighters killed on Wednesday fighting the Twisp River Fire. We want our neighbors throughout Okanogan, Chelan and Douglas counties to know that the Carlton Complex Long Term Recovery Group is standing by to provide advice and strategic assistance when you are ready to move from response to recovery.

“Right now we’re all focused on public safety and immediate disaster response,” Wyss said from his home in Brewster. “When the time comes to turn our collective attention to recovery, we will be ready to advise and assist as appropriate. One thing we can say at the outset is that recovery will take funding, so we encourage all those who are concerned about the welfare of Okanogan, Chelan, and Douglas County fire victims to give generously to the Community Foundation of North Central Washington. If there’s a specific community you want to support, you can note that on the Memo line of your check, or in the space provided in the online donation form.”

In the meantime, the CCLTRG is working to assist disaster relief efforts, arrange housing for incoming volunteers and displaced families—and continue progress on homes being rebuilt after last summer’s wildfires. The first two homes to be completed will be dedicated at private ceremonies this Sunday, August 23. Work on the other nine homes has come to a temporary halt, Wyss admits, due to the current fire situation.

(The image above was shot by firefighter Steve Perry who fought the Twisp River blaze for 34 hours before posting. Thank you for your service, Steve.)